Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City have emerged as standout stars within Accor’s Asia portfolio, earning top honours at the prestigious Asia Leadership Conference 2026 an achievement that places the Philippines firmly on the region’s hospitality map.
Hosted at Novotel Manila Araneta City, the annual gathering brought together more than 300 General Managers and Accor’s global leadership for three days of forward-thinking dialogue and strategic
exchange. Framed by the theme “THRIVE,” the conference explored the future of hospitality through the lenses of performance, purpose, and people; setting the tone for a new era of growth across Asia’s dynamic travel landscape. This also marks the first time the Philippines has been selected as host venue, spotlighting the country’s world-renowned Filipino hospitality while shining a light on Araneta City as the “City of Firsts.”
Yet it was during the much-anticipated Asia Leadership Awards that Manila, specifically the Araneta City, truly took the spotlight.
This year Novotel Manila Araneta City was honoured with the Brand Excellence Award for Midscale & Economy, a distinction reserved for properties that exemplify consistency, strong market presence, with an elevated brand experience earned through an exceptional 91.54 brand audit score, the highest in the Asian region a clear affirmation of brand integrity, consistency, and guest promise delivered at scale.
Notably, this latest win builds on its strong track record, following its recognition at the Accor Awards in 2023. Its legacy of excellence extends even further. In 2023, Novotel Manila Araneta City secured its position as a regional culinary leader, having been hailed as the Best Food & Beverage (F&B) Performer at the Accor Asia Awards. The property also earned key nominations across five major categories, including Best Loyalty Performance and Hotel of the Year, a testament to its well-rounded strength across both guest experience and commercial performance.
In a further testament to the team’s culture and service ethos, both Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City were jointly recognized with the Work of Heart Award, a celebration of genuine hospitality, emotional connection, and the kind of intuitive service that defines
memorable stays. The hotels proudly took home the said award, with ibis Styles Manila Araneta City achieving an outstanding 9.8 and Novotel Manila Araneta City an even higher 9.9 in employee engagement survey results among the highest scores in the network. These results reflect a culture built on trust, ground-level engagement, and genuine care for Heartists, brought to life every day on the hotel floor.
Novotel Araneta City named finalist for Hotel of the Year 2025, a distinction that honors holistic performance from rigorous brand audits and operational excellence to exceptional employee engagement and guest loyalty. Further reinforcing their commitment to responsible growth, the property was also recognized as finalist for the Responsible Hospitality Award 2025, underscoring meaningful progress toward Green Key Certification and a deep-rooted dedication to reducing environmental impact while delivering memorable, eco-conscious guest experiences.
“These recognitions are a proud moment for our entire team,” said Maria Manlulu-Garcia, Cluster General Manager of Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City and Area General Manager, The Philippines Premium, Midscale, and Economy. “They reflect the passion, consistency, and genuine care our Heartists bring to every guest interaction. To be acknowledged on a regional stage among our peers across Asia reinforces our commitment to delivering both exceptional performance and meaningful guest experiences.”
Beyond the accolades, the conference itself offered a curated blend of high-level insights and collaborative exchange bringing together senior executives, industry experts, and strategic partners to unpack emerging travel trends, evolving guest expectations, and the growing importance of responsible hospitality. For the Heartists of Araneta Hotels Inc, representing Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City,
the wins signal more than operational success they mark a defining moment of recognition within one of the world’s most competitive hospitality regions. As Accor continues to sharpen its focus on innovation and guest-centricity, these Manila properties exemplify how heart, culture, and performance can come together to create something truly exceptional.
Novotel Manila Araneta City transforms the holiday season into a tapestry of cherished moments, building on a decade of shared stories, joyful gatherings, and time-honored festive traditions. This year, the hotel invites families, friends, and loved ones to experience a thoughtfully curated holiday escape, where warmth, comfort, and togetherness define every stay. With inviting accommodations, seasonal culinary offerings, and relaxing wellness experiences, Novotel Manila offers a festive setting where joyful moments unfold and lasting holiday memories are made.
Guests seeking a holiday getaway can enjoy the Cozy Stays, Merry Nights Holiday Staycation Package, available for booking until January 10, 2026. Stays are available from December 1 to 23, 2025, December 25 to 30, 2025, and January 1 to 11, 2026, with rates starting at PHP 5,988 nett per night and peak dates, December 24 & 31, 2025 with rates start at PHP 6,688 nett per night. The package includes a breakfast buffet for two adults and two children aged 15 years and below at Food Exchange Manila, complimentary one-time access to Kids Club for two children per day, early check-in at 10AM and late check-out at 2PM, and Premier Lounge access for Executive Room and Suite bookings.
For a truly special night, the Stay The Night, Feel The Cheer, Christmas Eve Staycation Package is available until December 24, 2025, with rates starting at PHP 12,888 nett per night. The package includes breakfast for two adults and two children, Christmas Eve dinner for two adults, Premier Lounge access for Executive Room and Suite guests, a 10 percent discount on all F&B outlets excluding In-Room Dining, a complimentary extra bed, one-hour daily play at Kids Club, and a welcome gift.
Countdown Comfort, a New Year’s Eve Staycation Package offers a spectacular start to 2026, available for booking until December 31, 2025, with rates starting at PHP 15,888 nett per night. Guests can enjoy breakfast and New Year’s Eve dinner for two adults, Premier Lounge access for Executive Room and Suite bookings, a 10 percent discount on all F&B outlets excluding In-Room Dining, a complimentary extra bed, Kids Club access, a welcome gift, and access to the New Year’s Eve Countdown Party at the Monet Grand Ballroom.
For longer celebrations, the Two-Night Holiday Cheer Package offers stays from December 22, 2025, to January 2, 2026, with rates starting at PHP 5,688 nett per night. This package requires a minimum two-night stay and includes breakfast for two adults and two children as well as Premier Lounge access for Executive Room and Suite bookings. (Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-241333, Series of 2025.)
Festive culinary experiences are at the heart of Novotel Manila this season. Food Exchange Manila presents the Holiday Exchange featuring Sunday lunch buffets, Christmas Eve and Day lunch and dinner, and New Year’s Eve and Day meals. Rates start at PHP 1,388 nett per adult. Guests may visit My Novotel Manila Boutique to avail of special holiday exclusives, available from per-person offers to group rates. Children aged eight years and below eat free when accompanied by a full-paying adult. (Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-243698, Series of 2025.)
Guests can also savor well-loved Filipino holiday favorites at Gourmet Bar by Novotel, available until January 15, 2026, with each item priced at PHP 399 nett. The festive selection includes Bibingka (6 pieces), featuring soft, golden rice cakes baked to perfection and topped with salted egg, cheese, butter, and tender strips of young coconut; Puto Bumbong (4 pieces), the iconic purple rice delicacy steamed in bamboo tubes and finished with butter, brown sugar, and coconut; and comforting cups of Tsokolate Batirol, from the indulgent Choc Nut Batirol, blending rich chocolate and peanuts, to the classic Tsokolate Batirol, made from traditional tablea for a thick, velvety hot chocolate experience.
For gifting and festive treats, Indulge Gelato & Boulangerie presents a thoughtfully curated selection of Season’s Timeless Treats featuring holiday hampers, artisan chocolates, limited-edition wines, and seasonal dessert creations, perfect for sharing or celebrating at home. Hamper A (PHP 3,499 nett) offers a generous assortment featuring Auro Chocolates set of 3; a bottle of Solandia Wine (Montepulciano red or Chardonnay white); festive cookies, assorted cookies, Kevin Ong’s Panettone & Macarons. Hamper B (PHP 1,999 nett) includes Auro Chocolates in the same signature flavors, Solandia Wine (red or white) and festive cookies, ideal for elegant yet simple gifting.
Guests may also enjoy Auro Chocolate Special Edition Set with signature flavors in Ube Coconut, Calamansi Cheesecake (Vegan), and Dark Chocolate with Mango Bits (PHP 599 nett) and Solandia Wines (PHP 999 nett). Completing the festive spread, Indulge Gelato & Boulangerie also offers a delightful selection of seasonal desserts ideal for home celebrations. Highlights include the Yema Brûlée Cake(PHP 980), featuring rich custard flavors with a caramelized finish, and the indulgent Red Velvet Ensaymada. Mini Cakes (PHP 380 each) are available in Mango Cheesecake, Red Velvet Cake, Ube Macapuno Cake, and Carrot Cake. Guests can also enjoy bite-sized Profiteroles(PHP 120 each) in Chocolate, Mixed Berry, and Mochaflavors, along with festive Cookies (PHP 70 each), including Red Velvet Snowflake Cookie, Christmas Tree Sugar Cookie, and Pinwheel Cookies. (Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-243257, Series of 2025.)
For festive parties, The 6th Manila offers Christmas Party Packages starting at PHP 1,999 nett per person up to PHP 2,399 nett per person. Packages include 4-hours use of indoor or al fresco dining spaces, lighting and sound setup, and optional three-hour drink-all-you-can packages start at PHP 1,000 nett per person.
Novotel Manila sets the tone for celebration with Yuletide Libations, a festive cocktail collection designed to turn every gathering into a moment worth toasting. Available at The 6th Manila until January 15, 2026, the menu brings seasonal flavors to life, from the nostalgic warmth of Ube-Coco Rum Bumbong, blending rum, coconut juice, and airy ube foam, to the elegant indulgence of White Tanqueray Magic, where gin meets citrus, rose water, and velvety cream, and the vibrant Bombay Sapphire Parol, a bright mix of gin, Campari, and green grapes inspired by holiday lights. Priced at PHP 420 nett per cocktail, each creation is thoughtfully crafted to bring warmth, brightness, and festive flair perfect for lingering sips and holiday toasts at Novotel Manila.
Make this holiday season truly restorative with In Balance Wellness Holiday Offers, offering a festive escape for the body, mind, and soul. Guests may enjoy 12-day access to the fitness center, swimming pool, and Kids Club, along with 50 percent savings on selected spa treatments and a limited-edition wellness gift bundle for PHP 3,999 nett. For deeper indulgence, the 10+2 In Balance Spa Offer includes selected 60-minute treatments, with two complimentary sessions, priced at PHP 24,600 nett.
Extending the season of self-care into the new year, In Balance Wellness introduces two exclusive 2026 wellness offers, available from January 1 to 30, 2026, perfect for melting away the stress of the past year and starting fresh. The Wellness Jumpstart (PHP 2,026 nett) includes 26-day gym and pool access, three personal training sessions, one recovery massage, two fitness session passes, and an exclusive 50 percent discount on gym membership upon completion. Meanwhile, Radiance Reset (PHP 2,499 nett per person) offers a soothing escape with a 30-minute steam session, a 60-minute radiance massage, and a cup of herbal glow tea to complete the experience.
The festive season reaches its peak with New Year Disco Grooves, Novotel Manila’s New Year’s Eve Countdown Party, happening on December 31, 2025, from 10PM to 2AM at the Monet Grand Ballroom. Guests can ring in 2026 surrounded by vibrant music, dazzling entertainment, and a lively atmosphere, complete with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and exciting surprises. Tickets are priced at PHP 2,488 nett per person, with an optional PHP 1,000 nett add-on for three curated drinks, perfect for toasting to new beginnings and creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. (Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-243698, Series of 2025.)
This year, as Novotel Manila marks its 10th anniversary, we reflect on a decade of shared stories, cherished moments, and joyful celebrations with families, friends, and loved ones,” says Joy De Mesa, Hotel Manager. “Our holiday offerings from festive staycations and gourmet feasts to wellness experiences and family activities, are thoughtfully crafted to honor this milestone, creating new memories that continue our tradition of warmth, connection, and celebration. From the laughter of children to cozy family gatherings through stays and dining, every experience this season is designed to make the holidays unforgettable.”
Experience the holidays at Novotel Manila, where comfort meets celebration in every corner. Indulge in festive flavors, share laughter-filled activities, and enjoy special seasonal experiences. Let this season be filled with joy, warmth, and moments to cherish. Explore all our holiday offerings at bit.ly/NMACHolidayGuide2025 or http://www.novotelmanilaaranetacity.com. Reserve your table or inquire today at (63 2) 8248 8444 or HB133@accor.com.
Araneta Hotels Inc. proudly announces a new era of empowered leadership as ten out of fifteen executive committee roles across Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City are now held by women. This milestone reflects the strength of the organization’s internal talent, with these leaders rising through dedication, expertise, and consistent performance. Their
presence in key positions highlights the company’s commitment to recognizing capability and cultivating an environment where individuals advance based on merit, passion, and proven excellence. This achievement also supports the organization’s ongoing efforts to promote equitable opportunities and inclusive growth, aligning with Accor’s global mission to foster a workplace where diverse leadership can thrive.
Accor has deeply embedded DEI into its corporate culture, recognizing that diversity and inclusion are essential in creating meaningful human connections and driving innovation across its global network. The group’s commitment is centered on fostering a workplace where every individual feels valued, respected, and supported, regardless of background, orientation, or identity. This includes ensuring equal opportunities for personal and professional development, strengthening awareness on inclusive practices, and building environments where teams thrive through shared respect and collaboration. According to Accor’s culture of inclusion framework, embracing diversity strengthens organizational performance and fuels creativity by bringing together varied perspectives and lived experiences. This approach enhances the guest experience and empowers employees to bring their authentic selves to work every day.
Unified Leadership Built on Diversity, Strength, and Heart
The leadership culture at Araneta Hotels Inc. reflects the strength that comes from men and women working together and contributing their unique perspectives. Together, they create a balanced team that blends care with strategy and consistency with creativity. This harmony allows the organization to approach challenges with a wider perspective and deliver guest experiences shaped by both compassion and excellence. It is this complementing partnership that continues to strengthen the culture of Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, fostering unity, resilience, and shared purpose across both hotels.
Women Leading With Purpose
At the center of this evolution is Cluster General Manager Maria Manlulu-Garcia, who oversees both hotels with a leadership philosophy rooted in purpose, empathy, and operational discipline. She is supported by two strong female leaders who play pivotal roles in shaping each property’s direction and guest experience.
At Novotel Manila Araneta City, Hotel Manager Joy De Mesa drives commercial performance and elevates service quality through her extensive background in operations and sales. Her leadership emphasizes consistency, guest connection, and the continual strengthening of operational excellence.
At ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, Resident Manager Felicia Aye Chan Mon brings global brand expertise and a creative, guest centered mindset. Her energetic approach fosters a service culture that is dynamic, expressive, and true to the ibis Styles personality, ensuring memorable and meaningful experiences for every guest.
Women Rising Through the Ranks
Araneta Hotels Inc. proudly highlights the inspiring journeys of the women who rose through the organization and now hold key executive roles. Their achievements reflect the company’s dedication to nurturing internal talent and providing equal opportunities for long term professional growth. Marife Tolentino began as Accounting Manager in 2015 and now serves as Cluster Director of Finance, where she plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the financial health of both properties. She oversees strategic financial planning, drives fiscal discipline, strengthens internal controls, and ensures that financial operations align with the organization’s growth objectives. Her leadership has been instrumental in maintaining operational efficiency, supporting commercial performance, and guiding both hotels through evolving market demands.
Kristine Alba, who joined Novotel Manila in February 2018 as Talent and Culture Manager, now serves as Cluster Director of People and Culture for both hotels. She leads initiatives that strengthen employee engagement, foster talent development, and build a workplace anchored in empathy, inclusivity, and meaningful connection. Her people first approach has been vital in nurturing a motivated, high performing workforce.
Therese Galindo, who started as Guest Relations Manager in 2015, now heads Guest Experience, Sustainability, and Safety for both hotels. She has played a key role in elevating service standards and championing sustainability efforts, including leading the successful achievement of Green Key certification for both Novotel and ibis Styles Manila. This accomplishment reinforces the hotels’ commitment to environmental responsibility, operational efficiency, and sustainable tourism.
Emerging leaders include Janelle Crisostomo, who began her Novotel journey in 2023 as Rooms Division Manager and now serves as Director of Rooms. She attributes her growth to mastering the complexities of guest operations and leading with adaptability. Under her leadership, Novotel Manila achieved a significant milestone as it celebrates its 10th anniversary, with its Presidential Suite named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Suite 2025 at the World Travel Awards. This recognition reflects her dedication to elevating product standards, refining guest touchpoints, and strengthening the overall rooms experience. “The rooms division is the heart of hotel operations, and thriving here means embracing challenges as opportunities to innovate,” she says. “Leadership is about consistency, understanding your people, and elevating the guest experience through collective effort.”
May Malagamba, who joined Novotel Manila in 2018 as Director of Events Management and now leads Food & Beverage, highlights the importance of passion and persistence. Under her leadership, the F&B division has earned multiple distinctions, including Novotel Manila Araneta City being named Best F&B Performer at the Accor Asia Awards 2023 and winning Accor’s Best Breakfast Satisfaction 2024. “Food and beverage is fast paced and ever evolving. You cannot succeed here without heart,” she says. “Events taught me precision, creativity, and the value of anticipating needs. I carried these lessons with me when I transitioned to Director of F&B, and I continue to grow by adapting and learning every day.”
Kim Escaler also exemplifies dedication and upward progression. She began her career as Reservations Supervisor in 2015 and now serves as Cluster Director of Revenue Management, overseeing strategy and commercial performance for both hotels. Her analytical mindset and strong commercial insight support revenue initiatives that balance guest value with business sustainability.
At ibis Styles Manila, Izza Mojica leads as Director of Rooms after beginning her career as Duty Manager at Novotel in 2017. She credits resilience and a service driven mindset for her development. “Frontline operations shape you,” she says. “You learn to stay calm in pressure filled situations and find solutions with a smile. These challenges prepared me to lead and to understand both guest behavior and team dynamics.”
The growing prominence of women in leadership roles reflects an important shift in the hospitality industry, where emotional intelligence, resilience, adaptability, and a people focused approach have become essential qualities for long term success. Araneta Hotels Inc. believes that empowering women at all levels strengthens the organization by fostering innovation, enhancing team culture, and encouraging inclusive decision making. These leaders serve as powerful role models, demonstrating that leadership opportunities are attainable with determination, capability, and the right support system.
With these women at the forefront of hotel operations, Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City continue to set the standard for progressive hospitality in the Philippines. Their collective leadership signals a new chapter defined by purpose driven management, cultural transformation, and a commitment to uplifting both people and communities. Araneta Hotels Inc. remains dedicated to championing diversity, nurturing talent, and celebrating the profound impact women bring to the hospitality landscape.
As innovation matters, staying in the comforts of your private spaces or getting a voucher for special occasion has never been more delectable and rewarding as Novotel Manila Araneta City presents its first resident hotel services cloud, aptly named My Novotel Manila Boutique.
The first property of Accor in the Philippines and the first Novotel brand in Asia to develop an online ordering platform with a variety of hotel services ranging from dining and accommodation to spa and event services. The Novotel Manila Araneta City online boutique is a fresh new retail concept where hotel guests and dedicated Novo-fans can shop for popular staycations, unique spa treatments, buffet goodies, and a variety of items from the hotel’s famed TakeMeOut menu.
All-time favorites, classics, and new delicacies are all available in one click at My Novotel Manila Boutique. Epicures can sample Indulge Boulangeri’s renowned chocolate chip cookies or pan au chocolat with just a few taps of their fingers. Choose from a variety of nutritious salads, and artisanal sandwiches from Gourmet Bar’s farm to fresh dining concept featuring freshly harvested greens from the hotel’s very own organic farm in El Dorado located in San Mateo, Rizal.
Choose one of Take Me Out’s specialty dishes, Butter Chicken Masala, or the 6th Manila’s premium drink menu. TakeMeOut by Novotel Manila will cater to your culinary demands, whether it’s for a casual lunch, a special occasion, working from home, a romantic supper for two, or simply a quick excellent lunch in the workplace. Guests can also customize an intimate gathering through the hotel’s famed Memorable Moments or a wedding preparation for your loved one through the Social tab. Soon, Novo-fans will also have a chance to order more signature hotel services online such as flower arrangements, chef’s catering at home and more.
“My Novotel Manila Boutique is just the beginning of endless possibilities for us to innovate and our hotel guests to have the liberty to choose according to their lifestyle, through various cuisines from our most-loved kitchens and reimagine Novotel brand experience from our exclusive online room offerings, take-out food menu, events, and buffet offerings at the convenience of this digital space. Sharing a well-thought platform for our guests’ journey” shares Novotel Manila’s Resident Manager Darwin Labayandoy.
Score exclusive, limited-time offers at the hotel’s new digital space as Novotel Manila Araneta City brings the joys of dining and purchasing your exclusive room and spa vouchers online. The online boutique is available 24/7 daily and Take Me Out food and beverage offers are available for ordering between 9AM to 9PM daily, and ordered directly through my.novotelmanilaaranetacity.com.
My Novotel Manila boutique also features Accor’s loyalty program, Accor Live Limitless (ALL). Discover a world of rewards, unique benefits and exceptional events. Experience the extraordinary. Membership is free, visit https://my.novotelmanilaaranetacity.com/all-membership/
